A good neighbor is someone friendly, considerate, and respectful. While they are willing to lend a helping hand when needed, they always show concern for those around them. As described in the Bible in the book of Proverbs, chapter 17, verse 17, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Thus, a good neighbor is someone who loves you and supports you even at times of difficulty. They exert selflessness and will treat others with kindness and respect no matter the situation; they are willing to show forgiveness and understanding when needed. Additionally, the Bible speaks about the importance of being a good neighbor in 10:25-37, when Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan, who shows kindness and mercy to a stranger in need. In Galatians 6:9-10, Paul writes, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This exemplifies that it is vital to be a good neighbor even when difficult or inconvenient. A good neighbor should inspire others to follow suit, creating a snowball event where communities create a foundation for their members to thrive. I try to emulate this within my own life by giving back to my community. I started teaching swim lessons to kids who face mental and physical challenges. In the pool, wearing my tacky one-piece Speedo, with my hair in a big, wet messy bun, I was in the moment – laughing, cheering them on, and feeling so grateful that I could make a difference. When I got out of the water, I felt lighter and happier. Expanding my focus to serving others provided balance and gave my life more dimension. Moreover, I was recently granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project. We are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of the Trex Challenge. On behalf of my school, I wrote a letter to the local newspaper requesting mention in an upcoming article. I always aim to extend my outreach. In summation, there is more to being a good neighbor than what meets the eye. While it may be difficult, it is incredibly rewarding and vital that one treats others the way they would like to be treated. Although my journey is nowhere near over, I aim to embody these principles within my own life and enhance my influence within my community.

Not only do I think it is important to reduce my carbon footprint because it helps mitigate the effects of climate change and global warming, but I think it is important for me to create patterns that will enable me to live this way in the long run. Eventually, I will be accountable for a family of my own or serve as an influence to others, and I aspire to create a snowball effect in which others join in to better society. I prioritized making changes in my life around seventh grade after going to Puerto Rico with my family. We have a tradition where we go every year, and it holds some of my fondest memories; however, I was devastated to hear that their sea levels are rising 1-3 feet within the next century. My favorite beach, Crash Boat, has far more limited beachfront land than it used to due to these issues. This inspired me to help become part of the change. Within my own life, I reduce my energy consumption by unplugging appliances and switching lights off when not in use. Fortunately, I think a better part of the nation prioritizes using metal straws. I have found bamboo straws to be my favorite. Nevertheless, you won't ever catch me with a plastic straw. I would rather use a paper one, and that says a lot... the paper ones are usually horrendous! I also put in significant effort to use reusable containers and cutlery. When traveling with friends, we carpool whenever possible or rely on public transportation. I live somewhat close to New York City, and when my mom and I go down for day trips, we take the train. While these are micro-level environmental benefits, I actively aim to extend my influence throughout my community. I was recently granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project. We are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of the Trex Challenge. On behalf of my school, I wrote a letter to the local newspaper requesting mention in an upcoming article. I always aim to extend my outreach. Additionally, I was elected Vice President of Science National Honors Society which has allowed me to contribute to more projects. For example, I recently learned that my school does not recycle any plastic despite having plastic bins located around the school. This is due to people putting trash in these bins, and therefore they are unable to be used. The school was fined and decided not to continue recycling. However, the Science National Honors Society began an initiative: labeling the recycling bins to inform students exactly what should go in them. This way, we are slowly beginning to recycle plastic again throughout our halls. In summation, I actively aim to prioritize the environment to pave the way for future generations to live on an Earth we can all be proud of. I am not nearly done in my efforts to be a positive contributor, and I can only hope to inspire others to follow suit.

Desalination systems truly inspire me. During the process of desalination, salt is removed from ocean water, so that it is drinkable. Additionally, solar power is an abundant source of energy and can be used to support this process. Desalination systems can be powered by a variety of alternative energy sources too, including wind and nuclear power. These systems are generally not used alone but instead in combination with other water management strategies such as water recycling and conservation. The most common desalination technology is reverse osmosis, which uses pressure to filter out salt and other impurities from water. Areas with limited access to drinking water can greatly benefit from this technological advancement. It has already aided Israel and Saudi Arabia, amongst other nations. Desalination systems also can be an attribute to drought-prone areas and others that are commonly affected by natural disasters. It can produce up to 100,000 cubic meters of fresh water per day and is becoming increasingly popular around the world. Thankfully, it is both cost-effective and efficient, making it a promising solution for areas that need drinking water. Moreover, saltwater desalination systems can be used for crop irrigation and provide fresh sources of water for agricultural production. Thus, they can be used to provide a reliable source of water for industrial processes which may have otherwise been difficult to source. Helping reduce the need for water imports and dependence on foreign sources of water, even though the process can be costly, the cost of desalinated water is generally lower than that of typical water sources. Finally, and arguably most interesting, desalination systems can provide a source of fresh water to aquaculture systems. This promotes the healthy cultivation of fish, plants, and other aquatic organisms. Ultimately, the ability to turn salty or brackish water into fresh water can support a variety of communities and systems throughout the world, therefore making saltwater desalination an incredibly valuable technological advancement.

While the world's largest recorded bubble in history measured 96.27m^3, it would only have encompassed 0.0028% of Spring Lake Heights: my hometown. I am well aware that a metaphorical hollow sphere has encapsulated me as I’ve grown up; however, I cannot wait to pop it. Growing up in a community where I knew all of my neighbors, classmates, and teachers on a personal level provided me with rich relationships. My supportive community has served as a foundation for me to flourish. Our annual Trunk-or-Treats, Turkey Trot fundraisers, and North vs. South competitions have contributed to the prosperity of our tightly-knit town. I relish the support everyone provides one another. Ultimately, my hometown’s homogeneity has prepared me to embrace diversity. I have as broad of a perspective on life as my upbringing has allowed me to develop, and I can’t wait to widen it as much as possible as a college student. Engineering would also allow me to express my teamwork skills, and I would appreciate the opportunity to work with groups of people I would not otherwise interact with. I aim to expose myself to a variety of perspectives. Personally, I admire the endless opportunities for creativity, the ability to make a positive impact on the world, and the potential to master problem-solving skills through engineering. To me, the field would facilitate my power to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on society. I would love to use my own unique ideas to build things that can solve real-world problems. Namely, I hope to develop sustainable energy solutions, design efficient transportation systems, and create innovative medical devices. My goals shift and change as I grow, and I think engineering will allow me to explore a plethora of projects to determine my niche. The idea of an enclosed, narrow path of a future deeply scares me because I know I will change ideas and plans. Engineering eases this stress because of the abundance of opportunities at my fingertips. Attending the University of Virginia’s Engineering program is my dream. I see myself contributing to the diverse perspectives present in UVA’s Engineering department. My efforts will begin with the Society of Women Engineers. I was fascinated to find that UVA’s first female dean, Jennifer West, hosted the inaugural Women in Engineering Symposium in April of 2022. After hearing that Daria S. Torres, who started her career as an engineer at Lockheed-Martin, was a speaker at the symposium, I became excited to potentially attend as a student. Joining a group of inspired women would help me to feel more comfortable in the unique engineering industry. I would love the opportunity to help expand WiES’s online platforms and hear stories like Ms. Torres’ firsthand. I look forward to contributing my unique viewpoint to this incredible organization and hope to connect with other passionate women over a variety of topics within the discipline of engineering.

Why should one be a leader? Well, why not? To me, leadership enables people to reach their full potential and can inspire others around them. It helps people form connections that can help them understand one another, serving as a source of motivation to achieve goals. This creates a positve environment conducive to success. One does not have to be the most powerful in the room. Leadership is about being a person that others can look to and trust. Leadership is about being the person that can bring out the best in others. Leadership is vital as it can create a lasting impact on people. Namely, a good leader can encourage people to rise to the occasion and reach their highest ambitions, heightening their skills and talents. It is important to create a positive team dynamic and create a sense of direction, including helping set goals and objectives. Leaders can also provide a sense of security for others. They are trusted to make decisions and take action. Consequently, they can provide a sense of calm in chaotic environments. Leadership can also help bridge generational and cultural gaps, creating a sense of unity and understanding between various perspectives. A shared purpose and vision can inspire people to work together to achieve success. I aim to embody these principles in my own life. But personally, I think that the most important part of leadership is not being afraid to fail. I associate leadership with putting one's self out there. When I run for elections, a loss will not stop me from trying again. For example, while I was not voted Math Honors Society Vice President or Science National Honors Society Secretary, I continued my pursuits and serve as Student Counsel Treasurer, Honors Society Secretary, and founded my own club, Junior State of America, that I am President of. At meetings, I encourage group discussions where we debate current events and consider how they may affect our lives. While I started out with zero members, we now have 30 people actively contributing. I even ran for Science National Honors Society Vice President the year after my original loss and was elected. I was not afraid of losing again, but rather excited for the potential to win. All in all, leadership is significant in positively empowering people, thus fostering growth and success. The sense of unity and direction that leaders enable is necessary for success. To be a leader, one does not have to be powerful or authoritative but rather needs to foster connections and understand others in order to motivate them.

What is equally as important as physical health but almost invisible to the naked eye? Mental health. Prioritizing mental health enables one to develop emotional resilience. This is impactful in the long run as people can bounce back from setbacks, cope with stress, and adapt to various life challenges. This helps create a strong foundation for emotional well-being. Moreover, mental health is associated with one's cognitive function. This promotes thinking clearly, making decisions, and strengthening problem-solving skills. Thus, it helps boost productivity and creativity. Working to maintain mental health will encourage one to embark on a self-discovery journey which can ultimately lead to personal growth. As a result, one can delve into their values, passions, and life purpose. Nurturing one's well-being will allow them to unlock their full potential and live a meaningful life. While I am nowhere near perfect, I always aim to incorporate these principles into my life. In elementary and middle school, I made it my mission to get a 100 on every spelling test, win the annual Geography Bee, and master my multiplication tables. The lighthearted playfulness that had fueled my childhood creative pursuits was replaced by an insatiable drive to be a serious student. By the time I got to high school, I clung harder to that image, spending my summers memorizing the first five chapters of my textbooks and seeking out my teachers after school to “discuss” the 98 I received. All of this to uphold my impeccable record and reputation. I was working so hard and was so preoccupied with being the “perfect student”, that even Norman struggled to get my attention. Any slight setback that challenged the way I understood myself felt unacceptable. A grade under a 100, a less-than-perfect evaluation, and yes, even a “cute” image of me as a Disney snow princess felt like a threat to my perfectionism. For years, potential success did not motivate me; my fear of defeat forced me to work hard. Any goal I had achieved was not a reflection of me, it was a reflection of my anxiety. This unnecessary stress ate away at me for years, and I could not deny that I needed to make changes. Consequently, I began looking outward rather than inward, redirecting my focus from myself to my community. I started teaching swim lessons to kids who face mental and physical challenges. In the pool, wearing my tacky one-piece Speedo, with my hair in a big, wet messy bun, I didn’t think once about my image or my success. The kids didn’t care how well I did on a test earlier that day or what my class rank was and, when I was with them, neither did I. I was in the moment – laughing, cheering them on, and feeling so grateful that I could make a difference. When I got out of the water, I felt lighter and happier. Expanding my focus to serving others provided balance and gave my life more dimension. These relationships created a new rubric for my life, one where my external impact matters more than my personal accomplishments. This soothed my stress and increased the positivity in my life. All in all, mental health is a journey worth embarking on. Always remember to reach out to loved ones, engage in self-care, and even seek professional health. No one deserves to go on this journey alone, we should all travel together.

Growing up in a community where I knew all of my neighbors, classmates, and teachers on a personal level provided me with rich relationships. My supportive community has served as a foundation for me to flourish. Our annual Trunk-or-Treats, Turkey Trot fundraisers, and North vs. South competitions have contributed to the prosperity of our tightly-knit town. I always look to give back to my community because it has given me so much. I was recently granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project. We are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of the Trex Challenge. On behalf of my school, I wrote a letter to the local newspaper requesting mention in an upcoming article as I always aim to extend my outreach. Additionally, I was elected Vice President of Science National Honors Society which has allowed me to contribute to more projects. For example, I recently learned that my school does not recycle any plastic despite having plastic bins located around the school. This is due to people putting trash in these bins, and therefore they are unable to be used. The school was fined and decided not to continue recycling. However, the Science National Honors Society began an initiative: labeling the recycling bins to inform students exactly what should go in them. This way, we are slowly beginning to recycle plastic again throughout our halls. Moreover, after serving on my school's garden club since sophomore year, I've learned to love getting my hands dirty planting and caring for plants as well as learning about gardening techniques. While I am proud of my previous efforts, I am not nearly done. All in all, at the top of the mountain, I would ask others to join in.

While the world's largest recorded bubble in history measured 96.27m^3, it would only have encompassed 0.0028% of Spring Lake Heights: my hometown. I am well aware that a metaphorical hollow sphere has encapsulated me as I’ve grown up; however, I cannot wait to pop it. Growing up in a community where I knew all of my neighbors, classmates, and teachers on a personal level provided me with rich relationships. My supportive community has served as a foundation for me to flourish. Our annual Trunk-or-Treats, Turkey Trot fundraisers, and North vs. South competitions have contributed to the prosperity of our tightly-knit town. I relish the support everyone provides one another. Ultimately, my hometown’s homogeneity has prepared me to embrace diversity. I have as broad of a perspective on life as my upbringing has allowed me to develop, and I can’t wait to widen it as much as possible as a college student. I am incredibly passionate about pursuing engineering and feel that an education will offer specialized courses as well as hands-on experience that can prepare me for real-world challenges. Engineering would also allow me to express my teamwork skills; I dream of the opportunity to work with diverse groups of people. An educational environment is conducive to collaboration and will enable me to learn from others. I am also intrigued by the wide range of career options and room for growth throughout the engineering field. Education contributes to this as it will allow me to explore a variety of projects to find my passion. Personally, I admire the endless opportunities for creativity, ability to make a positive impact on the world, and potential for mastering problem solving skills through engineering. To me, the field would facilitate my power to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on society. Namely, I am fascinated at the possibility of developing sustainable energy solutions, designing efficient transportation systems, and creating innovative medical devices. My goals shift and change as I grow, and I think my future school will allow me to explore a plethora of projects to determine my niche. The idea of an enclosed, narrow path of a future deeply scares me because I know I will change ideas and plans as I grow. Engineering eases this stress because of the abundance of opportunities at my fingertips. In summation, the unique blend of career opportunities, personal fulfillment, and problem-solving that engineering promotes intrigues me. I aspire to obtain an education which can expose me to diverse perspectives while allowing me to narrow down my engineering goals.

“Chlo-Bo, is this you?” Lucy’s mom points to a picture on her laptop. My heart beats faster. I move closer to the screen, nervously anticipating what I might see. Please don’t be the Party City ad…please don’t be the Party City ad…PLEASE don’t be the Party City ad! Sure enough, a tiny depiction of Frozen’s Anna - green dress, intricate red braid, snowman friend and all - is staring back at me. It’s the Party City ad. And it’s definitely me. Lucy and her mom erupt in laughter as my cheeks flush a shade of red akin to a cooked lobster. When I was younger, my first priorities were my Barbies, my goldendoodle, Norman, and acting (which, yes, every once in a while led to a gig posing in a princess dress). Over time, however, these interests were overshadowed by the thing that mattered most to me: academic perfection. In elementary and middle school, I made it my mission to get a 100 on every spelling test, win the annual Geography Bee, and master my multiplication tables. The lighthearted playfulness that had fueled my childhood creative pursuits was replaced by an insatiable drive to be a serious student. By the time I got to high school, I clung harder to that image, spending my summers memorizing the first five chapters of my textbooks. Admittedly, a grade under a 100, a less than perfect evaluation, and yes, even a “cute” image of me as a Disney snow princess felt like a threat to my perfectionism. By junior year, it became apparent the flawless report cards and honor society inductions did not leave me fulfilled. One day, while staring at a familiar quote on my English teacher’s whiteboard - True or False: If you try your best you will succeed - I had something of an epiphany. For years, my life was organized around that simple principle – try hard and succeed – but, I wondered if I had been taking it too far. I realized that directing all of my efforts towards being infallible made me terrified to take risks. I wondered if I needed to loosen my grip…if I needed to, in the words of that other Disney snow princess, “Let It Go.” I began looking outward rather than inward, redirecting my focus to my community. I started teaching swim lessons to kids who face mental and physical challenges. In the pool, wearing my one-piece Speedo, with my hair in a wet messy bun, I didn’t think once about my image. The kids didn’t care what my class rank was and neither did I. I was in the moment – laughing, cheering them on, and feeling so grateful that I could make a difference. Expanding my focus to serving others provided balance and gave my life more dimension. I began volunteering as a docent at a nearby science museum to further my knowledge in engineering and was selected to help at my local hospital. I help transport people in wheelchairs to their rooms and deliver flowers to patients. I was also granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project in which we are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of a national organization’s (TREX) challenge. These relationships and opportunities created the new rubric for my life, one where my external impact matters more than my personal accomplishments. Today, I embrace the complexities and contradictions of who I am. I can celebrate both the Anna and AP Scholar versions of me as equal contributors to the person I’ve become.

“Chlo-Bo, is this you?” Lucy’s mom points to a picture on her laptop. My heart beats faster. I move closer to the screen, nervously anticipating what I might see. Please don’t be the Party City ad…please don’t be the Party City ad…PLEASE don’t be the Party City ad! Sure enough, a tiny depiction of Frozen’s Anna - green dress, intricate red braid, snowman friend and all - is staring back at me. It’s the Party City ad. And it’s definitely me. Lucy and her mom erupt in laughter as my cheeks flush a shade of red akin to a cooked lobster. When I was younger, my first priorities were my Barbies, my goldendoodle, Norman, and acting (which, yes, every once in a while led to a gig posing in a princess dress). Over time, however, these interests were overshadowed by the thing that mattered most to me: academic perfection. In elementary and middle school, I made it my mission to get a 100 on every spelling test, win the annual Geography Bee, and master my multiplication tables. The lighthearted playfulness that had fueled my childhood creative pursuits was replaced by an insatiable drive to be a serious student. By the time I got to high school, I clung harder to that image, spending my summers memorizing the first five chapters of my textbooks. Admittedly, a grade under a 100, a less than perfect evaluation, and yes, even a “cute” image of me as a Disney snow princess felt like a threat to my perfectionism. By junior year, it became apparent the flawless report cards and honor society inductions did not leave me fulfilled. One day, while staring at a familiar quote on my English teacher’s whiteboard - True or False: If you try your best you will succeed - I had something of an epiphany. For years, my life was organized around that simple principle – try hard and succeed – but, I wondered if I had been taking it too far. I realized that directing all of my efforts towards being infallible made me terrified to take risks. I wondered if I needed to loosen my grip…if I needed to, in the words of that other Disney snow princess, “Let It Go.” I began looking outward rather than inward, redirecting my focus to my community. I started teaching swim lessons to kids who face mental and physical challenges. In the pool, wearing my one-piece Speedo, with my hair in a wet messy bun, I didn’t think once about my image. The kids didn’t care what my class rank was and neither did I. I was in the moment – laughing, cheering them on, and feeling so grateful that I could make a difference. Expanding my focus to serving others provided balance and gave my life more dimension. I began volunteering as a docent at a nearby science museum to further my knowledge in engineering and was selected to help at my local hospital. I help transport people in wheelchairs to their rooms and deliver flowers to patients. I was also granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project in which we are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of a national organization’s (TREX) challenge. These relationships and opportunities created the new rubric for my life, one where my external impact matters more than my personal accomplishments. Ultimately, the themes surrounding my life can be applied to anyone, anywhere. It doesn't matter what generation you are. Everyone has anxiety, everyone has goals, and everyone is passionate about their own desires. I personally aspire to become an engineer. I admire the endless opportunities for creativity, ability to make a positive impact on the world, and potential for mastering problem solving skills through engineering. To me, the field would facilitate my power to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on society. I would love to use my own unique ideas to build things that can solve real-world problems. Namely, I hope to develop sustainable energy solutions, design efficient transportation systems, and create innovative medical devices. I do not think previous generations sought to destroy the Earth. I think they wanted to create a society where everyone could thrive. While the negative effects cannot be ignored, I think I can apply their positive mindset to my future. While I hope to contribute to the efforts reducing climate change, but I want to prioritize creating an efficient society conducive to success at the same time. We need to be mindful of the impacts of our technological advancements, but no one can go through a day in society with a phone, car, or article of clothing while complaining about climate change. The production of every good contributes to this mess, but we depend on it. Now we know. Now we can make changes. I want to create technological advancements that are mindful of the environment, but I am not accusatory of previous generations who may not have understood the magnitude of their actions. Today, I embrace the complexities and contradictions of who I am. I can celebrate both the Anna and AP Scholar versions of me as equal contributors to the person I’ve become. I have begun my efforts to leave a lasting impact within my community. I was granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project in which we are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of a national organization’s (TREX) challenge. I appreciate the efforts of previous generations, and I hope to "edit" them, so society can thrive with the Earth in mind.

“Chlo-Bo, is this you?” Lucy’s mom points to a picture on her laptop. My heart beats faster. I move closer to the screen, nervously anticipating what I might see. Please don’t be the Party City ad…please don’t be the Party City ad…PLEASE don’t be the Party City ad! Sure enough, a tiny depiction of Frozen’s Anna - green dress, intricate red braid, snowman friend and all - is staring back at me. It’s the Party City ad. And it’s definitely me. Lucy and her mom erupt in laughter as my cheeks flush a shade of red akin to a cooked lobster. When I was younger, my first priorities were my Barbies, my goldendoodle, Norman, and acting (which, yes, every once in a while led to a gig posing in a princess dress). Over time, however, these interests were overshadowed by the thing that mattered most to me: academic perfection. In elementary and middle school, I made it my mission to get a 100 on every spelling test, win the annual Geography Bee, and master my multiplication tables. The lighthearted playfulness that had fueled my childhood creative pursuits was replaced by an insatiable drive to be a serious student. By the time I got to high school, I clung harder to that image, spending my summers memorizing the first five chapters of my textbooks. Admittedly, a grade under a 100, a less than perfect evaluation, and yes, even a “cute” image of me as a Disney snow princess felt like a threat to my perfectionism. By junior year, it became apparent the flawless report cards and honor society inductions did not leave me fulfilled. One day, while staring at a familiar quote on my English teacher’s whiteboard - True or False: If you try your best you will succeed - I had something of an epiphany. For years, my life was organized around that simple principle – try hard and succeed – but, I wondered if I had been taking it too far. I realized that directing all of my efforts towards being infallible made me terrified to take risks. I wondered if I needed to loosen my grip…if I needed to, in the words of that other Disney snow princess, “Let It Go.” I began looking outward rather than inward, redirecting my focus to my community. I started teaching swim lessons to kids who face mental and physical challenges. In the pool, wearing my one-piece Speedo, with my hair in a wet messy bun, I didn’t think once about my image. The kids didn’t care what my class rank was and neither did I. I was in the moment – laughing, cheering them on, and feeling so grateful that I could make a difference. Expanding my focus to serving others provided balance and gave my life more dimension. I began volunteering as a docent at a nearby science museum to further my knowledge in engineering and was selected to help at my local hospital. I help transport people in wheelchairs to their rooms and deliver flowers to patients. I was also granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project in which we are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of a national organization’s (TREX) challenge. These relationships and opportunities created a new rubric for my life, one where my external impact matters more than my personal accomplishments. Today, I embrace the complexities and contradictions of who I am. I can celebrate both the Anna and AP Scholar versions of me as equal contributors to the person I’ve become.

While the world's largest recorded bubble in history measured 96.27m^3, it would only have encompassed 0.0028% of Spring Lake Heights: my hometown. I am well aware that a metaphorical hollow sphere has encapsulated me as I’ve grown up; however, I cannot wait to pop it. Growing up in a community where I knew all of my neighbors, classmates, and teachers on a personal level provided me with rich relationships. My supportive community has served as a foundation for me to flourish. Our annual Trunk-or-Treats, Turkey Trot fundraisers, and North vs. South competitions have contributed to the prosperity of our tightly-knit town. I relish the support everyone provides one another. Ultimately, my hometown’s homogeneity has prepared me to embrace diversity. I have as broad of a perspective on life as my upbringing has allowed me to develop, and I can’t wait to widen it as much as possible as a college student. Engineering would also allow me to express my teamwork skills, and I would appreciate the opportunity to work with diverse groups of people. Personally, I admire the endless opportunities for creativity, ability to make a positive impact on the world, and potential for mastering problem-solving skills through engineering. To me, the field would facilitate my power to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on society. I would love to use my own unique ideas to build things that can solve real-world problems. Namely, I hope to have the possibility to develop sustainable energy solutions, to design efficient transportation systems, and to create innovative medical devices. My goals shift and change as I grow, and I think engineering will allow me to explore a plethora of projects to determine my niche. The idea of an enclosed, narrow path of a future deeply scares me because I know I will change ideas and plans as I grow. Engineering eases this stress because of the abundance of opportunities at my fingertips. What motivates this desire? Volunteering. One of the first programs I contributed to was I Can Shine- a camp for helping children with disabilities. I connected with new people and realized how fulfilling it is when my talents and work ethic are directed toward service. During swim camp two years ago, a four-year-old boy with autism told me to be prepared because he “was a hugger”. That same year, I helped a girl learn how to ride a bike who was my age. We even met up after camp to go on a bike ride and continue to text to this day. Moreover, I volunteer as a docent at a nearby science museum to further my knowledge in engineering and was selected to help at my local hospital. I help transport people in wheelchairs to their rooms and deliver flowers to patients. I was also granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project in which we are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of a national organization’s (TREX) challenge. In summation, the unique blend of career opportunities, personal fulfillment, and problem-solving that engineering promotes intrigues me. I see large room for growth within my life and this will allow me to do so, opening the door to a variety of opportunities. Volunteering ultimately serves as my main motivation: I aim to contribute to society and continue to give back throughout my life.

While the world's largest recorded bubble in history measured 96.27m^3, it would only have encompassed 0.0028% of Spring Lake Heights: my hometown. I am well aware that a metaphorical hollow sphere has encapsulated me as I’ve grown up; however, I cannot wait to pop it. Growing up in a community where I knew all of my neighbors, classmates, and teachers on a personal level provided me with rich relationships. My supportive community has served as a foundation for me to flourish. Our annual Trunk-or-Treats, Turkey Trot fundraisers, and North vs. South competitions have contributed to the prosperity of our tightly-knit town. I relish the support everyone provides one another. Ultimately, my hometown’s homogeneity has prepared me to embrace diversity. I have as broad of a perspective on life as my upbringing has allowed me to develop, and I can’t wait to widen it as much as possible as a college student. Engineering would also allow me to express my teamwork skills, and I would appreciate the opportunity to work with diverse groups of people. This environment is conducive to collaboration and will enable me to learn from others. I am intrigued by the wide range of career options and room for growth throughout the field, allowing me to explore a variety of areas to find my passion. Personally, I admire the endless opportunities for creativity, ability to make a positive impact on the world, and the possibility to strengthen my problem-solving skills through engineering. To me, the field would facilitate my power to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on society. I would love to use my own unique ideas to build things that can solve real-world problems. Namely, I am fascinated at the possibility of developing sustainable energy solutions, designing efficient transportation systems, and creating innovative medical devices. My goals shift and change as I grow, and I think engineering will allow me to explore a plethora of projects to determine my niche. The idea of an enclosed, narrow path of a future deeply scares me because I know I will change ideas and plans as I grow. Engineering eases this stress because of the abundance of opportunities at my fingertips. On a more specific level, I see myself contributing to the diverse perspectives present in UVA’s Engineering department. My efforts will begin with the Society of Women Engineers. I was fascinated to find that UVA’s first female dean, Jennifer West, hosted the inaugural Women in Engineering Symposium in April of 2022. After hearing that Daria S. Torres, who started her career as an engineer at Lockheed-Martin, was a speaker at the symposium, I became excited to potentially attend as a student. Joining a group of inspired women would help me to feel more comfortable in the unique engineering industry. A scholarship would enable me to devote more time to my studies and afford UVA. As an out-of-state student, tuition is more expensive; however, scholarships would help offset the difference. I also hope to study abroad to expose myself to diverse environments and spend less time working, so I can focus on my classes. I would be eternally grateful for these wishes to be a possibility. In summation, the unique blend of career opportunities, personal fulfillment, and problem-solving that engineering promotes intrigues me. I see large room for growth within my life and this will allow me to do so, opening the door to a variety of opportunities. A scholarship would facilitate this process and help my dreams become a reality.

While the world's largest recorded bubble in history measured 96.27m^3, it would only have encompassed 0.0028% of Spring Lake Heights: my hometown. I am well aware that a metaphorical hollow sphere has encapsulated me as I’ve grown up; however, I cannot wait to pop it. Growing up in a community where I knew all of my neighbors, classmates, and teachers on a personal level provided me with rich relationships. My supportive community has served as a foundation for me to flourish. Our annual Trunk-or-Treats, Turkey Trot fundraisers, and North vs. South competitions have contributed to the prosperity of our tightly-knit town. I relish the support everyone provides one another. Ultimately, my hometown’s homogeneity has prepared me to embrace diversity. I have as broad of a perspective on life as my upbringing has allowed me to develop, and I can’t wait to widen it as much as possible as a college student. Engineering would also allow me to express my teamwork skills, and I would appreciate the opportunity to work with diverse groups of people. Personally, I admire the endless opportunities for creativity, ability to make a positive impact on the world, and potential for mastering problem-solving skills through engineering. To me, the field would facilitate my power to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on society. I would love to use my own unique ideas to build things that can solve real-world problems. Namely, I hope to have the possibility to develop sustainable energy solutions, to design efficient transportation systems, and to create innovative medical devices. My goals shift and change as I grow, and I think engineering will allow me to explore a plethora of projects to determine my niche. The idea of an enclosed, narrow path of a future deeply scares me because I know I will change ideas and plans as I grow. Engineering eases this stress because of the abundance of opportunities at my fingertips. What motivates this desire? Volunteering. One of the first programs I contributed to was I Can Shine- a camp for helping children with disabilities. I connected with new people and realized how fulfilling it is when my talents and work ethic are directed toward service. During swim camp two years ago, a four-year-old boy with autism told me to be prepared because he “was a hugger”. That same year, I helped a girl learn how to ride a bike who was my age. We even met up after camp to go on a bike ride and continue to text to this day. Moreover, I volunteer as a docent at a nearby science museum to further my knowledge in engineering and was selected to help at my local hospital. I help transport people in wheelchairs to their rooms and deliver flowers to patients. I was also granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project in which we are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of a national organization’s (TREX) challenge. In summation, the unique blend of career opportunities, personal fulfillment, and problem-solving that engineering promotes intrigues me. I see large room for growth within my life and this will allow me to do so, opening the door to a variety of opportunities. Volunteering ultimately serves as my main motivation: I aim to contribute to society and continue to give back throughout my life.

“Chlo-Bo, is this you?” Lucy’s mom points to a picture on her laptop. My heart beats faster. I move closer to the screen, nervously anticipating what I might see. Please don’t be the Party City ad…please don’t be the Party City ad…PLEASE don’t be the Party City ad! Sure enough, a tiny depiction of Frozen’s Anna - green dress, intricate red braid, snowman friend and all - is staring back at me. It’s the Party City ad. And it’s definitely me. I immediately blame Party City Powers-That-Be for choosing this photo: the one where my hands awkwardly flicked out at my sides and my smile made it seem like the person behind the camera was holding my curly-haired goldendoodle, Norman, hostage. When I was younger, my thoughts centered around Barbies, Norman, and acting (which, yes, every once in a while led to a gig posing in a princess dress). However, they were shadowed by my utmost priority: doing well in school. Throughout preschool, I memorized all my Fancy Nancy books, reciting them for my teachers as if I could read. From kindergarten through fourth grade, I made it my mission to get a 100 on every spelling test. The idea of success became an obsession. Because of this, failure scared me. A lot. Any slight setback that challenged the way I understood myself felt unacceptable. A grade under a 100, a less than perfect evaluation, and yes, even a “cute” image of me as a Disney snow princess felt like a threat to my perfectionism. One day, while staring at a familiar quote on my English teacher’s board - “True or False: Always try your best” - I had an epiphany. While the answer had always been an automatic TRUE, every ounce of my being yelled FALSE. Putting in the maximum effort was ingrained in me. There was a formula: try and try again- don’t stop. Following this path was much easier for me to do than letting myself let go a little bit. Becoming easier on myself gave me permission to look outward and get more involved in my community. One of the first programs that allowed me to do so was I Can Shine- a camp for helping children with disabilities. I connected with new people and realized how fulfilling it is when my talents and work ethic are directed toward service. During swim camp two years ago, a four-year-old boy with autism told me to be prepared because he “was a hugger”. That same year, I helped a girl learn how to ride a bike who was my age. We even met up after camp to go on a bike ride and continue to text to this day. Moreover, I volunteer as a docent at a nearby science museum to further my knowledge in engineering and was selected to help at my local hospital. I help transport people in wheelchairs to their rooms and deliver flowers to patients. I was also granted the opportunity to serve as the head of my Environmental Club project in which we are working to collect 500 pounds of plastic throughout our community as a part of a national organization’s (TREX) challenge. The people I helped and my new friends I volunteered with created a new rubric for my life, one where my outward impact mattered more than my personal accomplishments. I welcome failure. While I will continue to put in tons of effort, I no longer measure success in personal achievements. Does helping people fill my heart more than a 100 ever could? You bet.

While the world's largest recorded bubble in history measured 96.27m^3, it would only have encompassed 0.0028% of Spring Lake Heights: my hometown. I am well aware that a metaphorical hollow sphere has encapsulated me as I’ve grown up; however, I cannot wait to pop it. Growing up in a community where I knew all of my neighbors, classmates, and teachers on a personal level provided me with rich relationships. My supportive community has served as a foundation for me to flourish. Our annual Trunk-or-Treats, Turkey Trot fundraisers, and North vs. South competitions have contributed to the prosperity of our tightly-knit town. I relish the support everyone provides one another. Ultimately, my hometown’s homogeneity has prepared me to embrace diversity. I have as broad of a perspective on life as my upbringing has allowed me to develop, and I can’t wait to widen it as much as possible as a college student. Engineering would also allow me to express my teamwork skills, and I would appreciate the opportunity to work with diverse groups of people. This environment is conducive to collaboration and will enable me to learn from others. I am intrigued by the wide range of career options and room for growth throughout the field, allowing me to explore a variety of areas to find my passion. Personally, I admire the endless opportunities for creativity, the ability to make a positive impact on the world, and potential for mastering problem-solving skills through engineering. To me, the field would facilitate my power to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on society. I would love to use my own unique ideas to build things that can solve real-world problems. Namely, I am fascinated at the possibility of developing sustainable energy solutions, designing efficient transportation systems, and creating innovative medical devices. My goals shift and change as I grow, and I think engineering will allow me to explore a plethora of projects to determine my niche. The idea of an enclosed, narrow path of a future deeply scares me because I know I will change ideas and plans as I grow. Engineering eases this stress because of the abundance of opportunities at my fingertips. On a more specific level, I see myself contributing to the diverse perspectives present in UVA’s Engineering department. My efforts will begin with the Society of Women Engineers. I was fascinated to find that UVA’s first female dean, Jennifer West, hosted the inaugural Women in Engineering Symposium in April of 2022. After hearing that Daria S. Torres, who started her career as an engineer at Lockheed-Martin, was a speaker at the symposium, I became excited to have the potential to attend as a student. Joining a group of inspired women would help me to feel more comfortable in the unique engineering industry. I would love the opportunity to help expand WiES’s online platforms and hear stories like Ms. Torres’ firsthand. I look forward to contributing my unique viewpoint to this incredible organization and hope to connect with other passionate women over a variety of topics within the discipline of engineering at UVA. In summation, the unique blend of career opportunities, personal fulfillment, and problem-solving that engineering promotes intrigues me. I see large room for growth within my life and this will allow me to do so, opening the door to a variety of opportunities.

While the world's largest recorded bubble in history measured 96.27m^3, it would only have encompassed 0.0028% of Spring Lake Heights: my hometown. I am well aware that a metaphorical hollow sphere has encapsulated me as I’ve grown up; however, I cannot wait to pop it. Growing up in a community where I knew all of my neighbors, classmates, and teachers on a personal level provided me with rich relationships. My supportive community has served as a foundation for me to flourish. Our annual Trunk-or-Treats, Turkey Trot fundraisers, and North vs. South competitions have contributed to the prosperity of our tightly-knit town. I relish the support everyone provides one another. Ultimately, my hometown’s homogeneity has prepared me to embrace diversity. I have as broad of a perspective on life as my upbringing has allowed me to develop, and I can’t wait to widen it as much as possible as a college student. Engineering would also allow me to express my teamwork skills, and I would appreciate the opportunity to work with diverse groups of people. This environment is conducive to collaboration and will enable me to learn from others. I am intrigued by the wide range of career options and room for growth throughout the field, allowing me to explore a variety of areas to find my passion. Personally, I admire the endless opportunities for creativity, the ability to make a positive impact on the world, and potential for mastering problem-solving skills through engineering. To me, the field would facilitate my power to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on society. I would love to use my own unique ideas to build things that can solve real-world problems. Namely, I am fascinated at the possibility of developing sustainable energy solutions, designing efficient transportation systems, and creating innovative medical devices. My goals shift and change as I grow, and I think engineering will allow me to explore a plethora of projects to determine my niche. The idea of an enclosed, narrow path of a future deeply scares me because I know I will change ideas and plans as I grow. Engineering eases this stress because of the abundance of opportunities at my fingertips. On a more specific level, I see myself contributing to the diverse perspectives present in UVA’s Engineering department. My efforts will begin with the Society of Women Engineers. I was fascinated to find that UVA’s first female dean, Jennifer West, hosted the inaugural Women in Engineering Symposium in April of 2022. After hearing that Daria S. Torres, who started her career as an engineer at Lockheed-Martin, was a speaker at the symposium, I became excited to have the potential to attend as a student. Joining a group of inspired women would help me to feel more comfortable in the unique engineering industry. I would love the opportunity to help expand WiES’s online platforms and hear stories like Ms. Torres’ firsthand. I look forward to contributing my unique viewpoint to this incredible organization and hope to connect with other passionate women over a variety of topics within the discipline of engineering at UVA. In summation, the unique blend of career opportunities, personal fulfillment, and problem-solving that engineering promotes intrigues me. I see large room for growth within my life and this will allow me to do so, opening the door to a variety of opportunities.